Several super middleweight titles are expected to come back into play, and Canelo’s position in the division gives him flexibility. He is highly regarded by the sanctioning bodies and has the leverage to position himself for a title fight without being tied down to a single route.
Canelo’s options at 168
- Osley Iglesias
- Hamzah Sheeraz
- Christian Mbilli
- Lester Martinez
- Diego Pacheco
- Jose Armando Resendiz
Market considerations
From a business point of view, Hamzah Sheeraz stands out. He has already fought on several Riyadh season cards, making him a household name for that market. This commitment alone could make him an attractive option for a September fight if the right deal is available.
That doesn’t mean Sheeraz is the most proven choice. He has only fought once at super middleweight, against Edgar Berlanga, which did little to answer questions about how he fares against elite pressure at 168. His battle with Carlos Adames earlier this year also exposed defensive issues that stronger opponents could exploit.
If Canelo is focused on taking real risk, Osleys Iglesias, Christian Mbilli and Lester Martinez present more difficult stylistic problems. All three are aggressive fighters with power that will force sustained work over twelve rounds.
Against such opponents, Canelo would not be able to fight in short bursts and let the pace drive. He will be under constant pressure throughout the fight, facing younger fighters who are willing to engage consistently rather than choose moments.
Where Christian Mbilli Fits
From an entertainment point of view, Mbilli stands out. He has been positioned near the top of the division for a long period of time, with interim status waiting for a title opportunity while Canelo pursued other options. Such a fight would answer real questions about where Canelo stands at 168 by the next wave.
Each option comes with trade-offs, and timing can ultimately determine which fight materializes.
